Method, a system, a computer-readable medium, and a power controlling apparatus for applying and distributing power

ABSTRACT

Embodiments of the invention relate generally to power management and the like, and more particularly, to an apparatus, a system, a method, and a computer-readable medium for providing power controlling functionality to generate configurable power signals and to deliver power during fault conditions. In at least some embodiments, a power control unit can generate power signals having configurable attributes as a function of a mode of operation, a fault type, and the like.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. Nonprovisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 12/072,688 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,086,355), filedFeb. 27, 2008, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 60/903,914, entitled “Computer-Readable Medium, aMethod, a System, and a Power Switching Apparatus for Applying andDistributing Power,” filed on Feb. 28, 2007 with all of which are herebyincorporated by reference. This application is also related to U.S.Nonprovisional Patent Application Ser. No. 13/374,377, having and filedconcurrently herewith, and to U.S. Nonprovisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 13/374,374, having and filed concurrently herewith.

This invention may have been made with government support under contractnumber W56HZV-04-C-0132 awarded by the United States Army. Thegovernment may have certain rights in the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the invention relate generally to power management andthe like, and more particularly, to an apparatus, a system, a method,and a computer-readable medium for providing power controllingfunctionality to generate configurable power signals and to deliverpower during fault conditions.

BACKGROUND

Traditional techniques for providing power switching functionality togenerate configurable power signals and to deliver power during faultconditions, while functional, do not readily facilitate the effectivepower distribution, especially in vehicles. Further, conventional powerswitching devices generally are not well suited to provide for safetymechanisms (e.g., resolving extreme short circuit conditions).

It would be desirable to provide computer-readable media, methods,systems and power controlling apparatuses for reducing the drawbackscommonly associated with provisioning power, and to further providetechniques, for example, to do so during various fault conditions.

SUMMARY

A computer-readable medium, a method, a system and a power controllingapparatus are disclosed to, among other things, apply and distributepower in vehicles. According to the various embodiments, apower-controlling apparatus can be configured to control power to anentity consuming power or from an entity producing power as a functionof time, sensed parameter, or type of fault. Thus, a power-controllingapparatus can operate as a “power router” to distribute power among anetwork of power sources and loads, and to redistribute power dependingon a mode of operation and/or a fault condition. In one embodiment, aPower Control Unit (“PCU”) is configured to operate as a “power router.”In some examples, a power control unit can deliver at least 250 Amps(e.g., continuously) in one channel operation, and in two channeloperation, at least 125 Amps per channel. In some embodiments, the PCUcan operate, for example, from 5 Volts to 55 Volts. In variousembodiments, the PCU can implement one or more of the following:configurable (e.g., over network like CAN) short circuit detection,configurable subtle over current detection, configurable extreme overvoltage/under voltage detection, configurable, subtle over voltage/undervoltage detection, configurable extreme over temperature, configurablesubtle over temperature detection, configurable Pulse Width Modulation(PWM)-based waveforms, configurable PWM ramp-up/ramp-down of signals,configurable PWM continuous (or nearly so) waveform generation,programmability over a network (such as CAN), reporting of Voltage,Current, Temperature, and the like over a communication network, anetwork status detection for both network dependent operating modes androbust stand-alone operation. For example, a PCU can distinguish an overcurrent condition from allowed high current conditions through anadvanced and configurable fault maturing algorithm, according to oneembodiment. In another embodiment, the PCU can respond to over current,over voltage, and under voltage conditions within, for example, 4milliseconds. In another embodiment, a PCU can be used to control thepower contribution from various power sources and/or various energystorage devices that collectively or individually can supply power to apower bus.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The invention is more fully appreciated in connection with the followingdetailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is an example of a power control unit in accordance with atleast some embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 1B is a generalized example of a power control unit in accordancewith a specific embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is another generalized example of a power control unitimplementing a specific controller in accordance with a specificembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a diagram of an example of a waveform generator in accordancewith a specific embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is diagram showing an example of a current provided to a fanmotor by a PCU as a function of temperature, according to oneembodiment;

FIG. 5A is a diagram showing an example of On/Off Toggling as a functionof time, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 5B is a diagram showing an example of Ramp to On/Ramp to OffToggling as a function of time, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 5C is a diagram showing an example of Sawtooth Wave Generation RampOn/Ramp Off Toggling as a function of time, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 5D is a diagram showing an example of Sinusoidal Wave Generation asa function of time, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 5E is a diagram showing an example of a summation of Sawtooth WaveGeneration and Sinusoidal Wave Generation as a function of time that canbe programmed at the point of load to, for example test robustness ofelectronics, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 6 is diagram showing current variations that can be programmed atthe point of load to, for example, test robustness of electronic,according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 depicts an example of soft starting and soft stopping implementedby a PCU, according to one embodiment of the invention; and

FIGS. 8A and 8B are examples of flows for detecting faults using a powercontrol unit, according to various embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 9A and 9B are diagrams showing various fault profiles to determinetypes of faults, according to various embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 10A illustrates a power distribution network including a number ofPCUs each controlling power application to a load, according to variousembodiments of the invention;

FIG. 10B illustrates a power distribution network including a number ofPCUs, at least one of which can be configured to control power to and/orfrom a device that either sources or sinks power, or both, according tovarious embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 11 depicts an example of a set of operational profiles forcontrolling operation of a power control unit, according to at leastsome embodiments;

FIGS. 12A and 12B depict examples of bi-directional buck-boost powercontrol units, according to various embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a processor-based system suitable forproviding power controlling functionality to generate configurable powersignals and/or to deliver power during fault conditions, according to atleast one embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 14 illustrates an example of power distribution network including anumber of PCUs, at least one of which can be configured to control powerto and/or from devices that either sources or sinks power, or both, in amotor vehicle, according to various embodiments of the invention.

Like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout theseveral views of the drawings. Note that most of the reference numeralsinclude one or two left-most digits that generally identify the figurethat first introduces that reference number.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1A is an example of a power control unit in accordance with atleast some embodiments of the present invention. As shown in diagram150, a power control unit 160 includes a waveform control module 161,one or more operational profiles 162, a mode controller 164, a faultdetector 166, and one or more fault profiles 168. Also, power controlunit 160 can include one or more power source input terminals 159 andone or more power signal output terminals 171. At least one power sourceinput terminal 159 can be configured to receive power from any number ofpower sources, such as solar cell arrays, batteries, alternators, andthe like, and in different forms (e.g., in either DC or AC at variousamplitudes). At least one power signal output terminal 171 can beconfigured to transmit power signals to any number of power sinks,including loads, such as motors, lights, resistive loads (e.g.,heaters), batteries, and the like, and in different forms (e.g., ineither DC or AC at various amplitudes and/or at various rates ofchange). Power control unit 160 is configured to control a power signalin accordance with a mode of operation and/or a fault condition, and totransmit the power signal to a power sink (e.g., a load).

In view of the foregoing, power control unit 160 can generate variouspower signals with programmable power signal waveforms, the powersignals being configured to apply shaped waveforms that have relativelyhigh voltage amplitudes (e.g., up to 55 volts, or greater) and/orrelatively high current magnitudes (e.g., up to 100 amperes, orgreater). As such, power control unit 160 can facilitate powerdistribution from any number of power sources (not shown) to a powersink (not shown) that can operate at relatively high voltage amplitudesand/or high current magnitudes. In at least some embodiments, powercontrol unit 160 can modify power signals based on a mode of operationfor either power control unit 160 or the system of which power controlunit 160 is a part. In at least some embodiments, power control unit 160can modify power signals in response to detecting a fault condition, aswell as the type of fault that is detected. Further, power control unit160 can undertake a corrective action to resolve or accommodate apending fault to ensure operation of either the power sink or a systemcontaining power control unit 160, or both. For example, power controlunit 160 can discriminate between absolute faults (i.e., extreme faults)for a parameter that exceeds a range or threshold that demarcates theboundary of acceptable operation, and nascent faults that mature into amatured fault (i.e., subtle faults) after an interval of time. Absolutefaults (i.e., extreme faults) are magnitude-based faults as theypredominantly are determined in relation to magnitudes of a parameter,according to some embodiments, whereas nascent faults (i.e., subtlefaults) are time-based faults as they predominantly are determined inrelation to an amount of time that a parameter is, for example, outsidea range of acceptable parameter values during acceptable modes ofoperation.

In operation, mode controller 164 is configured to determine one mode ofoperation from a subset of modes of operation. A mode of operation canbe associated with an operational profile from operational profiles 162,where the operational profile can include data that describe how powercontrol unit 160 operates to generate a power signal responsive to aparameter from parameters 180. An operational profile can includerelationships between a parameter and a power signal as an output,including transfer functions and other mathematically-describedrelationships between one or more inputs (i.e., parameters) and anoutput (i.e., the power signal). To illustrate, consider that powercontrol unit 160 is used in a combat vehicle to operate a fan motor in acombat mode (i.e., fan is to operate to cool, regardless of speed orpower to ensure success in combat), in a power conversation mode (i.e.,fan is to operate to cool, but at a reduced speed to conserve power),and a silent mode (i.e., fan is to operate to cool, but at a speed tominimize vibrations and/or audible sounds at resonant frequencies).Combat mode can be associated with operational profile 162 a, powerconversation mode can be associated with operational profile 162 b, andsilent mode can be associated with operational profile 162 c. Examplesof operational profiles for various modes of operation are depicted inFIG. 11. Further, operational profiles 162 can include data representingone or more levels of performance, for each mode of operation, for apower sink. So, if the power sink/load is operating out-of-spec (e.g.,as determined by a parameter), then power control unit 160 can generatea power signal to meet a level of performance, even if it abnormallystresses the load. For example, if sand or grit impairs the speed offan, level of performance might require that fan operate a certain RPM,regardless of the power required to meet the speed.

Referring back to FIG. 1A, mode controller 164 can be configured toselect operational profiles 162 a, 162 b, and 162 c, based on the modeof operation, to respectively generate, for example, power signal 170 a,170 b, and 170 c at one or more power signal output terminals 171. Thus,power control unit 160 can apply power to a device, which can be a loador a power sink, by selecting an operational profile 162 to deliverpower to the device. Power control unit 160 can generate a power signal170 having a waveform shaped (e.g., by waveform control module 161) as afunction of a selected operational profile. Power control unit 160 thentransmits power signal 170 to the device, which can be a power sink or aload. Note that the terms “power sink” and “load” can refer to anydevice that operates to consume power, such as a power-consumptiondevice that performs work and an energy storage device (e.g.,batteries). In some cases, the device can be a power source rather thana power sink or load. For example, a battery both sources power andsinks current during recharging.

Waveform control module 161 can generate a power signal by, for example,shaping a portion of a waveform for one of power signals 170 to have arate of change specified by one of operational profiles 162. The rate ofchange can describe a slope for portions of either a trailing edge or aleading edge of a portion of the power signal, according to someembodiments. Waveform control module 161 can also form another portionof the waveform for one of power signals 170 to include an amplitude(i.e., a magnitude) specified by one of operational profiles 162. Insome embodiments, waveform control module 161 can include a power-onportion of a waveform for one of power signals 170 and a power-offportion of the waveform. A power-on portion and a power-off portion of awaveform for power signal 170 can reduce or eliminate transientsassociated with applying power or removing power from a load. In oneexample, the power-on portion provides for a soft start of a load (e.g.,a motor), whereas the power-off portion provides for a soft stop of theload. In at least some embodiments, the term “power-on portion” canrefer to a portion of a waveform that transitions at any rate of changefrom one level of any amount (e.g., a lower value) to another level ofany amount (e.g., a higher value) at the beginning of the waveform orwaveform cycle (e.g., during a positive rate of change). The term“power-off portion” can refer to a portion of a waveform thattransitions at some rate of change from one level of any amount (e.g., ahigher value) to another level of any amount (e.g., a lower value) atthe end of waveform or waveform cycle (e.g., during a negative rate ofchange).

In at least some embodiments, fault detector 166 is configured todetermine whether a fault condition exists, and, if so, which type offault relates to the fault condition. Fault detector 166 can beconfigured to operate in accordance with one or more fault profiles 168.According to one embodiment, each of fault profiles 168 can include datarepresenting parameter levels, thresholds and ranges that can demarcatea threshold or ranges of values for one or more parameters associatedwith normal operation. Examples of a fault profile are discussed inFIGS. 9A and 9B. Referring back to FIG. 1A, a fault profile 168 cancorrespond to an operation profile 162. Thus, operating a load invarious modes of operation may cause power control unit 160 to producevarious power signal magnitudes and waveforms and to operate in responseto different values of parameters. Correspondingly, different faultprofiles can be used to determine faults and fault types for differentvalues of parameters in different modes of operation. Upon detecting afault, fault detector 166 can initiate a fault action from fault actions169, which include data representing a set of actions that can beundertaken to either resolve a fault condition (e.g., shut downoperation of a load, increase operation of a load, such as a fan whentemperature rises above a threshold), or compensate for the faultcondition (e.g., if a battery is losing charge without be recharged byan alternator, then power control unit 160 can operate to meter theapplication of power to a load to conserve power).

In at least some embodiments, power control unit 160 can control theapplication of power during fault conditions. Waveform control module161 can be configured to generate a power signal for delivery to a powersink, the power signal having a programmable waveform that has a shapebased on a selected operational profile. Fault detector 166 can monitora parameter 180 associated with to determine whether the parameter iswithin a range of parameter values associated with normal operation ofthe power sink, or in the normal operation ranges associated with otherpower sinks. In various instances, parameter 180 can be associated withthe power signal (e.g., voltage, current), the power sink (e.g., theload's temperature), or any other parameter (e.g., ambient temperature).When fault detector 166 detects a fault as a function of a value for theparameter being noncompliant (i.e., being outside the range of theparameter values or above/below a threshold associated with normaloperation), fault detector 166 initiates a fault action 169.

In some embodiments, fault detector 166 is configured to compare one ofparameters 180 against one or more fault profiles 168. Based on thecomparison, fault detector 166 can be configured to classify a faultonce detect. For example, fault detector 166 can classify the fault asbeing associated with a first subset of faults if the parameter matchesat least a portion of fault profile 168 a, as an example. Or, faultdetector 166 can classify the fault as being associated with a secondsubset of faults if the parameter matches a second fault profile of theone or more fault profiles. In a specific embodiment, the first subsetof faults include nascent faults that mature into a fault after sometime (e.g., a subtle fault), whereas the second subset of faults caninclude extreme faults (or absolute faults), which are predominatelydetermined based on relative magnitudes of a parameter. In otherembodiments, there can be any number of subset of faults with which toclassify faults (e.g., two or more subsets).

Fault detector 166 classifies a fault as being associated with the firstsubset of faults by confirming whether the fault is mature. For example,a determination that a fault is mature can include determining that thevalue for the parameter is associated with a first subset of parametervalues, and monitoring an interval of time during which the value forthe parameter is associated with the first subset of parameter values.In at least one embodiment, the first subset of parameter can includeparameter values associated with a hysteresis region and a subtle faultregion, such as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B. Once the interval of timeexceeds a matured fault threshold, then the fault is deemed to be amatured fault (e.g., a matured subtle fault). Optionally, fault detector166 can generate an indication that the fault is mature, and thus, is amatured fault, with a fault action subsequently implemented. Such afault action would be related to faults in the first subset of faults.But note that if fault detector 166 does not detect that the interval oftime exceeds the matured fault threshold, then the fault has yet tomature. According to some embodiments, fault detector 166 can identifythat the fault is nascent (e.g., a subtle fault trigger level has beensurpassed), and classify the fault as a nascent fault. Fault detector166 then can determine whether the fault is maturing or dematuring. Forexample, fault detector 166 can increase a degree of maturity for thenascent fault when the value for the parameter remains associated withthe first subset of parameter values. But fault detector 166 candecrease the degree of maturity for the nascent fault when the values ofthe parameter are associated with a second subset of parameter values(e.g., values for a normal operation and values associated with ahysteresis region after surpassing a trigger level bounding the normalrange of operation). Note that fault detector 166 can identify thenascent fault as a mature fault when the degree of maturity meets athreshold degree of maturity (i.e., the threshold indicative of amatured fault) Lastly, fault detector 166 can classify a fault as beingassociated with a third subset of faults by confirming whether the faultis absolute (e.g., an extreme fault).

In various embodiments, power control unit can operate independently orin concert within a system of power control units, including powercontrol units (“PCU”) 153 a to 153 c. In some cases, a master controllerconfigured to communicate messages 155 via a network 154 to the systempower control units. Power control units 153 a to 153 c can operatesimilarly to power control unit 160 to generate power signals to anumber of loads, the power signals having controllable waveforms thatare shaped based on operational profiles. Power control units 153 a to153 c and power control unit 160 can be configured to accept messages155 from network 154 that are configured to modify the controllablewaveform of one of the power signals. In one embodiment, power controlunits 153 a to 153 c and power control unit 160 can be formed into apeer-to-peer arrangement for the plurality of power control units tocommunication to each other via the network. As such power control unit160 can control operation of one of power control units 153 a to 153 c.For example, if parameter 180 has a certain value, then in response,power control unit 160 can transmit a message 155 to cause power controlunit 153 b, for example, to modify its behavior. Note, too, that powercontrol unit 160 can operate independently should network 154 go down.Network 154 can be a CAN network, any wireless network, an Ethernetnetwork, the Internet, or any known communications network usingprotocols. In some embodiments, power control unit 160 can accept inputto modify the waveform to form a modified waveform, the input beingresponsive to a user selecting an input to modify the behavior of powercontrol unit 160.

FIG. 1B is a generalized example of a power control unit in accordancewith a specific embodiment of the present invention. Power control unit(“PCU”) 100 can include a Power Module 110 and a Control Module 120.Power Module 110 can include one or more power switches 112, sensors 114(e.g., including one or more internal sensors 114 a and/or one or moreexternal sensors 114 b), and is configured to generate power signals atterminals 115 a and 115 b, both of which can be operationally combinedto form output 116, or can control independently to generate powersignals at output terminals 116 a and 116 b. In a specific embodiment,PCU 100 can operate in single channel mode to deliver signals to eachterminal 115 a and 115 b, both of which can be combined to deliver poweras a single terminal 116. In a specific embodiment, control module 120is configured to control switch 112 to provide power via outputterminals 116 a and 116 b as either single or dual independent channels.In addition, control module 120 can be configured to generate aprogrammable waveform for applying power. In particular, control module120 can generate any of a number of configurable waveforms to provide,for example, various average current output levels as a function ofvarious parameters, such as time, temperature, pressure, and the like.Further, control module 120 can be configured to determine whether afault has matured against a variety fault thresholds at which PCU 100performs a power controlling action.

FIG. 2 is another generalized example of a power control unitimplementing a specific controller in accordance with a specificembodiment of the present invention. PCU 200 includes a power module210, which include elements that have structure and/or functionality asthose elements described in FIG. 1B, and control module 220. PowerModule 210 can be configured for a variety of, for example, voltage andcurrent ranges and can operate, for example, in dual channel or singlechannel mode 216. In one embodiment, the Power Module can operate withvoltages from 5V to 55V DC and/or currents to at least 50 Amps or more(e.g., in a continuous fashion) in dual channel mode, or to at least 100Amps or more (e.g., in a continuous fashion) in single channel mode. Invarious embodiments, power capabilities of PCU 200 can be enhanced forimproved current and voltage capabilities. For example, if switch 212implements at least one type of solid state power switch technology,Power Module 210 can provide throughput over, for instance, 150 Ampscontinuous per channel in dual channel mode, or to over, for instance,300 Amps continuous in single channel mode. In as least someembodiments, switch 212 can be fabricated using CMOS, BiCMOS, as well asany other type of semiconductor fabrication processes and material, suchas silicon carbide (“SiC”).

Control module 220 includes controller 230 includes one or more of thefollowing: a Multi-Channel Output 234 which has a connection 222 totransmit control signals for controlling one or more channels in switchcontrol portion 212 of Power Module 210; a Waveform Generator 238 isconfigured to switch state of switch 212 from on to off, or any PWMpercentage between on and off. In one embodiment, Waveform Generator 238can be an executable set of software instructions that process externaland internal control commands to provide switch information 239 to theMulti-Channel Output 234. Fault Detector 240, at least in oneembodiment, an environmental data processor 242 can be configured todetermine parameters with which to monitor operation of, for example, aload and the environment in which the load is disposed. For example,environmental data processor 242 can execute a set of softwareinstructions that process real time information from sensors 214 aand/or 214 b to determine a state or functional operation of PCU outputs216 a & 216 b. In one embodiment, environmental data processor 242 canproduce Real Time Information (RT Info) as a function of sensorinformation from sensors 214 a and/or 214 b, and process thatinformation in accordance with software instructions for use by FaultDetector 240 or Waveform Generator 238.

Note that sensor 214 a and sensor 214 b can each represent one or moresensors for determining one or more parameters. Examples of sensors 214a and 214 b can include any sensor for monitoring and/or detecting anytype of parameter, such as time, voltage, current, temperature,pressure, flow, speed, position, vibration, acceleration, audible soundenergy, proximity of an object, humidity, smoke, chemical, and the like.As such, sensors can provide parameters to controller 230 can modify theapplication of power at output 216 a and/or output 216 b. In someembodiments, environmental data processor 242 can determine a parameteras a derived parameter based on one or more measured parameters. Aderived parameter can be any combination or derivative of one or moreone or more measured parameters. For example, a derived parameter canresult from the implementation, for example, of a transfer function, oneor more mathematical equations, or the like.

One or more inputs 201 and one or more outputs 216 can be coupled to anydevice, which includes power generation sources and loads, as well asboth. In at least some embodiments, one or more inputs 201 can becoupled to a source or power, such as a power generation source (e.g.,generators, solar cells as well as other solar-based power generators,fuel cells, alternators, and the like), and/or an energy store (e.g., abattery, a capacitor (e.g., an UltraCap, which can be an electrochemicaldouble layer capacitor), or the like. In at least some embodiments, oneor more outputs 216, such as outputs 216 a and 216 b can be coupled toany load, such resistors, heaters, motors (e.g., window, wipers, fans,etc.), lights, fans, electronics (e.g., communication radio, electroniccontroller, ABS system and components, engine controller, transmissioncontroller, etc.), sensors (including arrays of sensors), and the like.Input 201 and output 216 can be coupled to a device that behaves as apower generation source (e.g., during a first interval of time) and aload (e.g., during a second interval of time).

Communication 232 portion of PCU 200 is a physical connection to anetwork link 204 on which information is sent to and from the PCU 200,and control and configuration are sent to the PCU 200. Further,controller 230 can include memory 236, such as Non-Volatile Memory, tostore instructions and data as software source code to configure PCU200, for example, response to measured parameters from sensors 214.

FIG. 3 is a diagram of an example of a waveform generator 300 inaccordance with a specific embodiment of the present invention. Waveformgenerator 300 can include a communications module 232 of FIG. 2, a pulsewidth modulation module 310, a soft start/soft stop module 320, and/or awaveform control module 330, any of which can be composed of hardware orsoftware, or a combination of both. In at least some embodiments, pulsewidth modulation module 310 can be configured to modify an amount ofpower delivered in a power signal to a device, such as a load or powersink responsive to a mode of operation and/or a fault condition. Forexample, a mode of operation for a vehicle's head lamps might requirethem to dim for in either an energy conversation mode or in a nightbattle mode. Thus, pulse width modulation module 310 can deliver apercentage of the available power by modifying a duty cycle for thepower signal. In at least some embodiments, soft start/soft stop module320 can be configured to modify the rate at which power is applied to atarget, such as a motor, battery, or a power bus, as well as modify therate at which power is removed from the target. In at least someembodiments, waveform control module 330 can be configured to shape oneor more portions of the waveform of a power signal to, for example,modify the rate of change (e.g., the slope of the leading or trailingedge of a waveform, as well as frequency), the amplitude, and the like.For example, waveform control module 330 can provide a power signal withan amplitude in the range of 0 to 55 volts or more, according to atleast some embodiments. Further, waveform control module 330 can providea power signal with a current in the range of 0 to 100 amperes, or more.In various embodiments, the power signal can provide DC or AC voltagesand currents, and provide power signals at more than 55 volts and/or 110amperes.

In various embodiments, PCU 200 of FIG. 2 operates to deliver power inresponse to conditions using waveform generator 300. For example, if thePCU 200 were used to maintain a certain temperature for operation of atarget entity, such as a battery (not shown), it can control the speedof a fan, based—in whole or in part—on the need to cool the battery.FIG. 4 is diagram 400 showing an example of a current provided to a fanmotor by a PCU as a function of temperature, according to oneembodiment. In this example, an external temperature sensor 214 b wouldbe used to sense battery temperature 402. Through a look-up table ormathematical function in memory 236 or as controlled externally throughcommunication module 232, waveform control 330 produces a current 403resulting from fan control profile 401. In another example, the PCU canbe configured to sense the signal going into a speaker through anexternal sensor 214 b and control intensity of a light based oncharacteristics of the signal. In this case, the light can changeintensity synchronously with music. Waveform Control 330 can beconfigured to control the PCU 200 output current 216 based onconfigurable patterns such as square waves, sine waves, sine waves withnoise ripples, step levels, current drops, etc.

FIGS. 5A to 5E depict examples of waveforms that can generated bywaveform generator 238 of FIG. 4. FIG. 5A is a diagram 500 that shows awaveform generated to include an on/off toggle with an “on” duration 501and an “off” duration 502, both which constitute a toggle cycle 503.Controller 230 of FIG. 2 can control the number of toggle cycles 503,which can be programmable, from 1 toggle cycle to on-going toggle cyclewhile power is applied to PCU 200. The programmable number of cycles canfacilitate cycle testing. For example, a motor might be exercised tofailure by applying waveform 500 to the motor until it fails, at whichthe number of cycles can be compared with other number of cycle thatother failed motors experience. In another example, a comparative motorlife study could be performed to objectively determine the benefits ofimplementing a ramp-to-on/ramp-to-off toggle waveform as shown indiagram 510 of FIG. 5B. In this example, a ramp-to-on (soft-start) 511can be performed, followed by an on-time 512, followed by a ramp-to-off(soft-stop) 513, followed by an off-time 514. Waveform 510 can beapplied to a motor to failure to determine if soft-start soft-stopextends the life of a motor under test. In other examples, waveformgenerator 300 can generate sawtooth waveforms as shown in diagram 520 ofFIG. 5C. The sawtooth waveforms can be applied to loads for evaluatingthe loads. In this example, a ramp-up 521 to a maximum 525, which can befollowed by a ramp-down 522 to a minimum 524, thereby forming a sawtoothcycle 523. This can determine whether an electronic module is robustover a certain power range. Waveform generator 300 (e.g., under controlof waveform control module 330) can generate a sinusoidal waveform, asdepicted in diagram 530 of FIG. 5D. Here, the sinusoidal waveform isshown to have a cycle time 531, a minimum 532, and a maximum 533. Invarious embodiments, waveform generator can generate complex waveforms,an example of which is depicted as a waveform in diagram 540 of FIG. 5E.The waveform in FIG. 5E can be produced through the summation of asawtooth waveform of FIG. 5C (which can be seen in the sawtooth rise 541and sawtooth fall 542 portions of waveform 540) and the sinusoidwaveform of FIG. 5D (which can be seen in the sinusoidal cycle 543 ofwaveform 540). A complex waveform such as this, for example, can beapplied to an electronic module, such as an anti-lock brake module, toensure that challenging power waveforms to the electronic module and/orto the antilock brake sensors can be handled in a robust fashion (e.g.,within predetermine thresholds or tolerances) and do not cause a failure(e.g., inadvertently lock-up the brakes). In other examples, powerwaveforms can be recorded and implemented in memory 236 to study andimprove operation of an electronic module or sensor array.

FIG. 6 is diagram 600 showing current dips that can be programmed at thepoint of load to test robustness of electronic loads with in a system.Power dips may be of interest from a test and evaluation standpoint. Inthis example, the first dip has a duration 604 and a magnitude 601, thesecond dip has a duration 605 and a magnitude 602, and the third dip hasa duration 606 and a magnitude 603. For example, the operation of a loadcan be evaluated to see if either duration 606 or magnitude 603 causes amalfunction. Or, if either duration 606 or magnitude 603 is notcompliant with respective thresholds, then a PCU can take correctiveaction, according to at least some embodiments. As an example, considerthat the arrangement of power dips (in timing and magnitude) in diagram600 can cause a loud “pop” issue in a radio system. In this case, aradio designer model a power source that provides the power dips to testwhether the radio system can operate under such dip patterns. In variousembodiments, such testing can be in design, production, and/or in-situ.

As noted in the examples above, complex power waveforms can be generatedby a PCU, which can be especially beneficial for use as a challengingelectrical stimulus to loads and/or microprocessor-based modules for thepurposes of testing. Further, PCU 200 of FIG. 2 can perform controlpatterns. In the case of a headlight, PCU 200 could be configured withdifferent patterns that can be used, for example, as an indicator or forvisual communication purposes, such as an S.O.S. pattern to visuallycall for help. That is, Waveform Generator 300 of FIG. 3 can causecontroller 230 of FIG. 2 to modulate operation of switch 212 to enablepower to flow from input 201 to output 216 in a pattern as follows: 0.5seconds on, 0.5 seconds off, 0.5 seconds on, 0.5 seconds off, 0.5seconds on, and 0.5 seconds off to form an “S” in Morse code, 1.0seconds on, 0.5 seconds off, 1.0 seconds on, 0.5 seconds off, 1.0seconds on, and 0.5 seconds off to form an “O” in Morse code, and 0.5seconds on, 0.5 seconds off, 0.5 seconds on, 0.5 . seconds off, 0.5seconds on, and 0.5 seconds off to form an “S” in Morse code. In atleast some embodiments, Waveform Generator 300 can operate independentlywithout communication 232 or can optionally receive control instructionsfrom a power management application, giving the PCU 200 the ability togenerate an unlimited variety of control outputs. Should communicationsdrop, PCU 200 of FIG. 2 can operate without external instruction (e.g.,it can operate in accordance to instructions stored in memory 236).

Waveform Generator 300 can be configured to operate with Soft Start andor Soft Stop unit 320, according to at least some embodiments of theinvention. The normal operation of a switch is to facilitate current toflow (e.g., a switch is closed) or not flow (e.g., a switch is open). Inthe case of turning a motor on, there can be a high amplitude/shortduration current in-rush transient to the motor that has an impact onother components or power sources within a power system. Depending onthe motor, electrical currents can peak to significantly higher thannormal operating current. When the motor “transition from motor-off tomotor-on” is controlled with PCU Soft Start, the in-rush current iseliminated. The Soft Start functionality of unit 320 can handle thetransition from current minimum to current maximum. Soft Stopfunctionality of unit 320 can handle the transition from current maximumto current minimum. In the case of a light, a soft start can graduallyturn the light on and soft stop would fade to off. FIG. 7 is a diagram700 showing an example of a 10 second Soft Start 702 and a 5 second SoftStop 703, according to one embodiment. In other embodiments, soft start702 portion of the depicted waveform can be referred to a power-onportion of any power signal waveform, and soft stop 703 portion of thewaveform can be referred to a power-off portion of a power signalwaveform.

FIG. 8A is an example of a flow 800 for detecting faults using a powercontrol unit, according to at least some embodiments of the invention. Apower control unit can implement a fault detection process in accordancewith flow 800 to detect one or more faults relating to any parameter,one or more derived parameters, mathematical expressions based on anyone or more parameters, and the like. At 802, a parameter (or a valuethereof) is obtained or sampled, for example, from a sensor to form anobtained parameter. In various embodiments, flow 800 can match aparameter (i.e., an obtained parameter) against one or more criteria(i.e., thresholds and/or levels), and can categorize the parameter intoone or more fault categories, where different categories of faults cancause different actions (corrective or otherwise) to be undertaken. Inthis example, flow 800 determines whether an obtained parameter isassociated with either a subtle fault or an extreme fault. As usedherein, an “extreme fault,” at least in some embodiments, refers to avalid fault. In some embodiments, an extreme fault is a value-basedfault that need not require a duration of time to determine that a faultcondition exists. In some instances, an extreme fault is a criticalfault. An extreme fault, in some cases, can require an action to resolvethe fault. As used herein, a “subtle fault,” at least in someembodiments, refers to a fault that is not an extreme fault, but isassociated with an obtained parameter that is subtly being disassociatedwith a normal range or threshold of operation. In some embodiments, asubtle fault can be a time-based fault that matures into fault aftersome period of time during which parameter value does not comply withvalues associated with normal operation (i.e., operation during which nofaults exist or nascent faults are becoming subtle faults). In somecases, a nascent fault matures into a subtle fault. Thus, a subtle faultcan be a function of historic values of the parameter. A subtle faultcan invoke actions that may differ from those actions invoked by extremefaults. For example, a subtle fault, once detected, can cause generationof a notification message (e.g., a message notifying a user that such afault exists for later correction), whereas an extreme fault can causegeneration of a power-altering message (e.g., a message that istransmitted from a power control unit to modify the distribution ofpower in a system implementing one or more power control units). In someinstances, a subtle fault requires a maturation process (i.e., faultmaturation) to occur over time before a fault can be deemed a subtlefault, the subtle fault maturation process including both a faultmaturation determination and a fault dematuration determination. Thefault maturation determination is a process by which a subtle fault isdetermined or categorized. Generally, the fault maturation determinationis a function of the degree of degradation of an obtained parameter(e.g., the degree to which a value for a parameter moves away, ordiverges, from normal operation) over time. However, a potentiallysubtle fault need not mature into a subtle fault when the value of theparameter moves toward, or converges upon, the normal operatingthreshold over time. The fault dematuration determination is a processby which a value for parameter that is associated with a potentiallysubtle fault (e.g., undergoing fault maturation) can demature into avalue that is deemed to be normal.

At 804, a determination is made as to whether the obtained parameter isassociated with an extreme fault. In some embodiments, a value of aparameter can be determined to be associated with an extreme fault ifthe value of the parameter exceeds a threshold. For example, the valuecan be matched against thresholds 920 and 930 to determine whether theparameter relates to region (“A”) 902 and region (“A”) 914,respectively, in the diagram of 900 of FIG. 9A. In at least someembodiments, diagram 900 can be described as a fault profile thatdescribes the conditions in which a parameter (or a value thereof) isassociated with one or more fault conditions. That is, diagram 900 setsforth various parameter levels, thresholds and ranges for categorizingfaults and as well as determining faults (e.g., performing maturationprocesses). Note that different parameters can have different faultprofiles. Note further that a parameter (or the value thereof) can bematched against different fault profiles having different parameterlevels, thresholds and ranges. For example, each mode of operation inwhich a power control unit (as well as the system in which the powercontrol unit operates) can be associated with a corresponding faultprofile that has different parameter levels, thresholds and ranges thanthe other fault profiles.

If the value is within (or substantially within) either region (“A”) 902or region (“A′”) 914, then an extreme fault is detected at 806 of FIG.8A. An indication that an extreme fault can be generated at 806 forconsumption by a power control unit or power management application(i.e., to take some sort of action). An indication can be of any form,such as a flag or a message that includes data representing anindication that an extreme fault has been detected. At 808, an extremefault action is performed, such as a preconfigured extreme fault action.For example, the extreme fault action can include an action of“communicating the condition” to “initiating a control action,” whichcan initiate a corrective action. Note that the particular extremeaction taken may be different for different modes of operation. Forexample, a power control unit can operate in a dependent mode undercontrol of, for example, a centralized processor, such as a powermanagement application (“PMA”) of FIGS. 10A and 10B. The centralizedprocessor can determine which extreme action the power control unitshould take and communicate a message to the power control unit, which,in response to the message, performs the extreme action. Flow 800 canterminate at 810, or can resume fault detection processes to monitorother fault conditions. Further, a power control unit can operate in anindependent mode, in which the power control unit determines the extremeaction, such as turning off (i.e., power cessation) to the load.

But if flow 800 determines that the obtained parameter is not associatedwith an extreme fault condition, then flow 800 can continue to 815 towhether a subtle fault determination is underway (i.e., a potentialfault or a nascent exists). If not, then the parameter continues to beevaluated at 817 to monitor the parameter. If so, then flow 800 moves to812, at which a determination is made as to whether the obtainedparameter exceeds a first trigger level associated with a subtle fault,the first trigger level specifying the initiation of a fault maturationdetermination. An example of a first trigger level is threshold 922 ofFIG. 9A (or threshold 928 for the lower values of the parameter). Insome embodiments, a value of a parameter can be determined to beassociated with a subtle fault if the value of the parameter exceeds athreshold for a duration of time. For example, the value can be matchedagainst thresholds 922 and 928 to determine whether the parameterrelates to region (“B”) 904 and region (“B′”) 912, respectively, in thediagram of 900 of FIG. 9A. If the value of the parameter is not withinregion (“B”) 904 or region (“B′”) 912, then flow 800 of FIG. 8Acontinues in 812 to determine whether a potential subtle fault has beendetected and may be maturing or dematuring. If the parameter isdetermined to exceed the first trigger level (and have a value, forexample, below an extreme fault level) at 812, then the subtle fault, asa nascent fault, is maturing at 814 and an optional indication of thematuring status of the parameter can be generated. Flow 800 then cancontinue to 827 at which a maturation action can be taken to mature thenascent fault. In some examples, a maturation counter can beincremented.

But if the parameter is determined to not exceed the first triggerlevel) at 812, then flow 800 continues to 820, at which is determinationis made as to whether the value of the parameter is within acceptable(i.e., normal) range of values of operation. If so, then a secondtrigger level has been reached, the second trigger level specifying theinitiation of a fault dematuration determination. For example, the valueof the parameter can be associated with the valued of region (“D”) 908of FIG. 9A. An example of a second trigger level is threshold 924 ofFIG. 9A (or threshold 926 for the lower values of the parameter). Thesubtle fault, as a nascent fault, is dematuring at 822 and an optionalindication of the dematuring status of the parameter can be generated.Flow 800 then can continue to 826 at which a dematuration action can betaken to demature the nascent fault to extinguish the potential faultcondition. In some examples, the maturation counter can be decremented,or a dematuration counter can be incremented. If not, then the secondtrigger level has not been reached and flow 800 continues to 824. Thus,the value of the parameter is between the values associated with thefirst and second trigger levels, both of which define, for example, ahysteresis region. For example, the value of the parameter can beassociated with either region (“C”) 906 or region (“C′”) 910. Next, flow800 continues to 825 at which a determination is made as to whether afault maturation determination process is pending (e.g., based on apreviously sampled value of the parameter that exceeds the first triggerlevel). If so, then flow 800 can continue to 827 at which a maturationaction can be taken to mature the nascent fault. If not, then a faultdematuration determination process is pending and the flow continues to826 at which a dematuration action can be taken to demature the nascentfault.

At 829, flow 800 retrieves information specifying the states ofdematuring as determined in 826 and maturing as determined in 827, andthe flow can determine the degree of maturity associated with theparameter. For example, a value of a dematuration counter can besubtracted from a value of a maturation counter to determine the degreeof maturity. In at least some embodiments, the degree of maturity canrepresent amount of accumulated time (e.g., an interval of time) that avalue of a parameter has exceeded a normal range of operation after afirst trigger level is surpassed. Flow 800 can flow to 830 at which adetermination is made as to whether the potential subtle fault hasmatured into a fault (e.g., a subtle fault). For example, the degree ofmaturity determined at 829 can be compared against a threshold degree ofmaturity. If the degree of maturity meets or exceeds the thresholddegree of maturity, then the nascent fault is deemed to have maturedinto a subtle fault, which can be indicated at 831. At 832, a maturedsubtle fault action can be performed, after which flow 800 can beterminated at 840, or can continue at 802 (not shown). For example, thesubtle fault action at 832 can include “communicating the condition” to“performing a control action.” Note that the matured subtle fault actionmay be different for different modes of operation. For example, a powercontrol unit can operate in a dependent mode under control of, forexample, a centralized processor, such as a power management application(“PMA”) of FIGS. 10A and 10B. The centralized processor can determinewhich matured subtle fault action that the power control unit shouldtake and communicate a message to the power control unit, which, inresponse to the message, performs the matured subtle fault action.Further, a power control unit can operate in an independent mode, inwhich the power control unit determines the matured subtle fault action,such as decreasing power applied to a load.

If the degree of maturity does not meet or exceed the threshold degreeof maturity, then the nascent fault is not yet deemed to have maturedinto a subtle fault, and may continue either maturing or dematuring.Thus, flow 800 can transition to 833 to continue evaluating theparameter value to determine whether the nascent fault either maturesinto a subtle fault or dematures, thereby extinguishing the pendingfault condition. Note that the fault profiles and their thresholds, suchas thresholds 920, 922, 924, 926, 928, and 930 of FIG. 9A, as well asmaturation times 942 and 946, can be programmed and stored in, forexample, a memory. Note further that the thresholds can also beconfigured to “inactive” in some cases. Maturation times 942 and 946 canrepresent threshold degrees of maturity against which a degree ofmaturity can be matched. In at least some embodiments, more or less thanthe levels depicted in FIG. 9A can be implemented.

FIG. 8B is an example of a flow for detecting faults using a powercontrol unit in a specific implementation, according to an embodiment ofthe invention. To illustrate the flow of FIG. 8B, consider the exampleof the fault profile of FIG. 9B to determine types of faults, accordingto at least one embodiment of the invention. The following example of afault detection process, as applied to motor current, illustrates afault determination processes that implement at least some of theaspects of flow 800 of FIG. 8A. Referring to FIG. 9B, consider diagram950 is a fault profile for motor current, which is depicted as parameter951, for a window motor during at least one mode of operation. In thisexample, a window motor is closing a window of a vehicle, and the valuesof a window motor current (as parameter 951) are considered to be withina range of acceptable operation in region (“C′”) 960, region (“D”) 958,and region (“C”) 956. Next, consider that a window operated upon by thewindow motor has ice build-up at a first point of time 971 (i.e.,between (“W”) 990 and zone (“X”) 992) and it takes more current than istypical to move the window. Thus, the window current may operate inregion (“C”) 956 and region (“B”) 954 in zone (“X”) 992, as shown inFIG. 9B. In another example, the motor might be bound with sand andgrit, causing the current to operate in region (“C”) 956 and region(“B”) 954. In yet another example, an object in the path of the windowor a short circuit in the motor can cause the current to transition(e.g., quickly transition) over an extreme fault threshold 970 intoregion (“A”) 952.

Referring to FIGS. 8B and 9B, consider the motor current, as parameter951, is sampled at 852 of flow 850 of FIG. 8B, and that the windowcurrent transitions over threshold 971 into region (“B”) 954 of FIG. 9B,which is between thresholds 972 and 970. Since the values of the currentdo not surpass extreme fault threshold 970, flow 850 of FIG. 8B movesthrough 854 to 862, at which 862 determines that the current has enteredat least region (“B”) 954. As shown, the values of the current aresampled for an interval of time 942 within in either region (“C”) 956 orregion (“B”) 954 of FIG. 9B. During interval of time 942, a subtle faultstarts to mature at 864 of FIG. 8B, and flow 850 continues to 876 tocontinue determining that the subtle is maturing (or dematuring). Asshown in FIG. 9B, the window current transitions back into the normalregion (“D”) 958 at a second point of time 973 (between zone (“X”) 992and zone (“Y”) 994). Referring back to FIG. 8B, flow 850 determines thatthe parameter value associated with pending subtle fault is in normalregion (“D”) 958 at 870. Thus, flow 850 moves to 872 while the subtlefault dematures while the current is in either region (“D”) 958 orregion (“C”) 956 of FIG. 9B. Since the subtle fault does not mature at880 of FIG. 8B, then flow 850 continues, or terminates at 890.

As shown in FIG. 9B, the values of the current steadily increase duringinterval of time 944 a (i.e., zone (“Y”) 994). Flow 850 of FIG. 8Bpasses through 854, 862, and 870 until a determination is made that thevalues of the current related to a hysteresis region at 874. Referringback to FIG. 9B, another subtle fault begins to mature after point intime 975, at which the window motor current exceeds threshold 972.Diagram 950 shows that the current matures during zone (“X′) 996 until asubtle fault matured after a time interval 944 b has elapsed at point intime 977. Time interval 944 b can be referred to as the threshold degreeof maturity, at least in some embodiments. Subsequently, flow 850 ofFIG. 8B can perform a matured subtle fault action at 882, afteridentifying that a subtle fault has matured at 881. The matured subtlefault action can be handled by a power control unit during zone (”Z″)998.

In some cases the power control unit is part of a system that is managedby either a centralized processor or processors (and a power managementapplication (“PMA”)) or a peer-to-peer management scheme. An example ofthe former is shown in FIG. 10A as power management application 1010.The power control unit can indicate the subtle fault condition to thepower management application 1010, and power management application 1010can respond with instructions describing how to handle the fault. Faulthandling can also be performed by the power control unit, locally, ifthere is a loss of communication with the power management application1010. In either case, if a subtle fault is occurring, another parametersuch as temperature might be considered to determine the best course ofaction. For example, consider that temperatures are very low (e.g.,freezing, below 0 degrees Celsius), and the fault condition is new. Themotor may continue to operate with this subtle fault condition. But iftemperatures were higher (e.g., higher than freezing, above 0 degreesCelsius), power management application 1010 might be used to indicatethat the motor needs to be repaired (Condition Based Maintenance) orreplaced to avoid over-heating, which low temperatures would otherwiseminimize. To protect a system (e.g., a system of a motor, wiring, andthe like), a power control unit might implement a matured subtle faultaction, such as disabling a motor, unless overridden by an operator.

Note in at least some cases, consider that the window currenttransitions into the region (“A”) 952, and the power control unitvalidates the fault and is deemed to be an extreme fault. The powercontrol unit could be programmed to eliminate current to an electricalload, thereby protecting the load or preventing fire caused by shortcircuit arcing. Similar examples can apply to other parameters in otherregions. For example, consider that a power control unit is tasked withmonitoring a subsystem that maintains a pressure within a range ofpressure values, but the subsystem has a slow leak. An under pressurefault condition can be considered as a matured subtle fault in region(“C′”) 960 or region (“B′”) 962 of FIG. 9B, whereas an extreme underpressure fault can be detected in region (“A′”) 964 (i.e., once triggerlevel 980 is surpassed). An example of an extreme under pressure faultcan be due to a severed hose. Other parameters, such as derivativeparameters (e.g., speed, acceleration, and the like) and mathematicallyderived parameters (e.g., frequencies, and the like), can also beassociated with a fault profile, such as shown in FIG. 9B, so that flow850 of FIG. 8B can be applied thereto.

FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate examples of various power distributionnetworks that include a number of power control units, according tovarious embodiments of the invention. FIG. 10A depicts an example of apower distribution network including a power management application1010, a power bus 1020 over which power can be distributed in relationto a variety of power generation devices 1022 and energy storage devices1024, and number of power control units 1012, according to at least someembodiments of the invention. Each of power control units 1012 can beconfigured to apply power differently to corresponding loads 1013, basedon a mode of operation for either the system implementing the powerdistribution network or a power control unit 1012. Further, a powercontrol unit 1012 can modify power delivery to one or more loads 1013based on the type of fault that might be occurring. Note that a powercontrol unit 1012 can operate in a dependent mode under control of, forexample, a centralized processor, such as a power management application1010. The centralized processor can communicate a message to powercontrol unit 1012 to control the power control unit's behavior for apending mode change or fault condition, for example. In addition, apower control unit 1012 can operate in an independent mode, in which thepower control unit determines fault action, for example, such as powercessation to the load.

FIG. 10B illustrates another power distribution network 1050, accordingto at least one embodiment. FIG. 10B shows a power managementapplication 1010 configured to operate with a processor (not shown) tomanage the actions of power control units 1090. Power managementapplication 1010 is coupled via a communications link 1051 tocommunicate with power control units 1090. A power bus 1052 over whichpower can be distributed is also coupled to power control units 1090.FIG. 10B also shows a number of power control units that are configuredto control the application of power from various devices that sourcepower (devices 1053 g through 1053 j) and control the application ofpower to various devices that sink power (devices 1053 a through 105 f),any of which can be managed by a power management application 1010,which includes executable instructions (e.g., stored in memory 236 ofFIG. 2) that can be processed by a power control unit, such as powercontrol unit 200 of FIG. 2. Examples of devices 1053 g through 1053 jthat source power include alternators, photovoltaic arrays, batteries(and other energy storage devices), and the like. Examples of devices1053 a through 1053 f that sink power include motors, fans, lights,electronic modules, batteries (and other energy storage devices), andthe like. In some examples or applications, additional hardwarefiltering 1054 a through 1054 e can be used to condition the variouspower signals. Note that the power control units, such as power controlunit 200, can operate in various modes. Different modes allow fordifferent performance levels based on parameters (as measured, forexample, by sensors 214 a, 214 b), faults detection threshold, and/orinstructions and operational profiles used by power managementapplication 1010.

FIG. 11 depicts an example of a set of operational profiles forcontrolling operation of a power control unit, according to at leastsome embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 11, a number of differentwaveforms can be generated by a waveform generator 300 of FIG. 3 can bedetermining by specific modes of operation, such as modes A, B, C, andD. Operational profile 1120 depicts a waveform applied to load, such asa fan motor described in FIG. 4. In this example, operational profile1120 can be implemented during mode A, which can be a “normal operatingmode” that is configured to optimize power consumption by detecting atemperature 1124 and producing a current 1126 as a function of waveform(or relationship) 1122. Operational profile 1140 can be implementedduring mode B, which can be a special “silent mode” that is configuredto reduce resonant frequency of a fan motor by reducing current tocurrent 1146 for a certain temperature 1144 as a function of waveform(or relationship) 1142. Operational profile 1160 can be implementedduring mode C, which can be an “operational fault mode” that isconfigured to operate with a pending type of fault by producing current1166 at temperature 1164 as a function of waveform (or relationship)1162. Operational profile 1180 can be implemented during mode D, whichcan be a “heavy sun” mode initiated by a sensed parameter, for example,such as signal generated by a sun sensor indicating heavy sunload. Thegreater the sunload, the higher the probability that cooling effortswill need to increase. Thus, a power control unit can control a fan (asa load) based on waveform (or relationship) 1182, which is configured toremedy a certain heavy sun condition.

FIGS. 12A and 12B depict examples of bi-directional buck-boost powercontrol units, according to various embodiment of the invention. A PowerControl Unit (“PCU”) can operate in various configurations. Referring toFIG. 12A, one such configuration is a bi-directional buck-boost PowerControl Unit 1200, which includes a controller 1202 to control switchingdevices, such as switching devices 1212, 1214, 1216, 1218, 1222, and1224 in a coordinated fashion. Power control unit 1200 also includeshardware device 1232, internal sensors 1234 and external sensors 1238.As such, bi-directional buck or boost current controls 1244 and 1248 canbe achieved to facilitate interaction between devices 1242 and 1246.

FIG. 12B is a diagram showing an example one implementation of abi-directional buck-boost power control unit 1250, according to oneembodiment of the invention. FETs 1262, 1264, 1266, 1268, 1272, and 1274can be controlled by controller 1252, and, with transformer 1282 andsensors 1284, 1286, and 1288, current and voltage can be controlled in abi-directional buck-boost fashion. In one mode, power can be controlledfrom battery 1294 to an energy storage device, such as an ultracapacitor1296. In another mode, power can be delivered from the ultracapacitor1296 to a load 1292, such as a starter motor, for example. Thisimplementation can be used to manage the charging of an ultracapacitorfrom an uncharged state. This implementation can also be useful tomanage a starting system in extreme cold environments. In extreme cold,large amounts of current draw from a battery severely shortens the lifeof the battery. A large amount of current is demanded by a startingmotor, especially when cold temperatures make engine block fluidsviscous. Ultracapacitors can be used to deliver large amounts ofcurrent, but use large amounts of current. Using either a bi-directionalbuck-boost power control unit 1200 or a bi-directional buck-boost powercontrol unit 1250 allows for managed current demand from the battery tothe ultracapacitor and also allows for the ultracapacitor to delivercurrent to the starter motor. Other examples may include power controlunits or other switching devices 1212, 1214, 1216, 1218, 1222, and 1224and other hardware 1232, such as inductors. The interconnections betweendevices can also be configurable. More or fewer elements shown in FIGS.12A and 12B can be implemented to form bi-directional buck-boost powercontrol units.

FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary processor-based system suitable forproviding power controlling functionality to generate configurable powersignals and to deliver power during fault conditions, according to atleast one embodiment of the invention. In some examples, processor-basedsystem 1300 can be used to implement computer programs, applications,methods, processes, or other software to perform the above-describedtechniques and to realize the structures described herein.Processor-based system 1300 includes a bus 1302 or other communicationmechanism for communicating information, which interconnects subsystemsand devices, such as processor 1304, such as a microcontroller, acentral processing unit, or the like, system memory (“memory”) 1306,storage device 1308 (e.g., ROM), disk drive 1310 (e.g., magnetic oroptical), communication interface 1312 (e.g., modem or Ethernet card),display 1314 (e.g., CRT or LCD), input device 1316 (e.g., keyboard), andcursor control 1318 (e.g., mouse or trackball). In some embodiments,display 1314, I/O device 1316 and cursor control 1318 are optional, or,are used when configuring processor-based system 1300 as a power controlunit, and can coupled directly to processor-based system 1300 or via acommunication link 1320. In one embodiment, cursor control 1318 canselect an input field and input/output device 1316 can include a userinput interface, whereby both cursor control 1318 and input device 1316can collaborate to, for example, program a processor-based system 1300to operate a power control unit. Note that the term memory can refer toany medium in which data can be stored.

According to some examples, processor-based system 1300 can performspecific operations in which processor 1304 executes one or moresequences of one or more instructions stored in system memory 1306. Suchinstructions can be read into system memory 1306 from another computerreadable medium, such as static storage device 1308 or disk, drive 1310.In some examples, hard-wired circuitry can be used in place of or incombination with software instructions for implementation. In theexample shown, system memory 1306 includes modules of executableinstructions for implementing an operation system (“O/S”) 1332, anapplication 1336, and data stored as operational profile(s) 1360, faultprofile(s) 1362, and fault actions 1363. Application 1336 includesinstructions for providing one or more aspects of power control unitfunctionality. For example, application 1336 includes additionalinstructions as a waveform control module 1386 to generate configurablepower signals and waveforms thereof. Further, application 1336 canimplement instructions as mode controller 1388 to control power asfunction of a mode of operation and as fault detector module 1390 todetect and determine one or more types of faults.

The term “computer readable medium” refers, at least in one embodiment,to any medium that participates in providing instructions to processor1304 for execution. Such a medium can take many forms, including but notlimited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media.Non-volatile media includes, for example, optical or magnetic disks,such as disk drive 1310. Volatile media includes dynamic memory, such assystem memory 1306. Transmission media includes coaxial cables, copperwire, and fiber optics, including wires that comprise bus 1302.Transmission media can also take the form of acoustic or light waves,such as those generated during radio wave and infrared datacommunications.

Common forms of computer readable media includes, for example, floppydisk, flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magneticmedium, CD-ROM, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, anyother physical medium with patterns of holes, RAM, PROM, EPROM,FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, an electro-magneticwave that carries a computer readable signal, or any other medium fromwhich a computer or a processor can read or interpret.

In some examples, execution of the sequences of instructions can beperformed by a single processor-based system 1300. According to someexamples, two or more processor-based systems 1300 coupled bycommunication link 1320 (e.g., LAN, PSTN, or wireless network) canperform the sequence of instructions in coordination with one another.Processor-based system 1300 can transmit and receive messages, data, andinstructions, including program, i.e., application code, throughcommunication link 1320 and communication interface 1312. Receivedprogram code can be executed by processor 1304 as it is received, and/orstored in disk drive 1310, or other non-volatile storage for laterexecution. In one embodiment, system 1300 is implemented as a powercontrolling device, such as power control unit 1350, that can be locatedrelatively near or at the point of the power sink (or load). But inother embodiments, system 1300 can be implemented as a personal computer(i.e., a desk top computer, personal digital assistance, etc.) or anyother computing device.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example of power distribution network 1400including a number of PCUs, at least one of which can be configured tocontrol power to and/or from devices that either sources or sinks power,or both, in a motor vehicle, according to various embodiments of theinvention. In at least some examples, power distribution network 1400can be disposed in a vehicle, such as automobile 1401. In this example,power distribution network 1400 includes PCUs 1440 configured to powerlights (not shown) in the front and the rear, and PCUs 1460 configuredto power anti-lock brake systems (not shown) near each wheel. Powerdistribution network 1400 also includes one or more power sources 1403,which can include a battery 1404, an alternator 1406, and any otherpower source, such as a fuel cell (not shown), or any power sink, any ofwhich can be coupled to a power bus 1430 to provide power to PCUs 1440and 1460. Power distribution network 1400 optionally can include PMA1450 to control operation of PCUs 1440 and 1460 via communications link1420.

In at least some of the embodiments of the invention, the structuresand/or functions of any of the above-described interfaces and panels canbe implemented in software, hardware, firmware, circuitry, or acombination thereof. Note that one or more of the structures andconstituent elements shown herein, as well as their functionality, canbe aggregated with one or more other structures or elements.Alternatively, the elements and their functionality can be subdividedinto constituent sub-elements, if any. As software, the above-describeddescribed techniques can be implemented using various types ofprogramming or formatting languages, frameworks, syntax, applications,protocols, objects, or techniques, including C, Objective C, C++, C#,FleX™, Fireworks®, Java™, Javascript™, AJAX, COBOL, Fortran, ADA, XML,HTML, DHTML, XHTML, HTTP, XMPP, and others. These can be varied and arenot limited to the examples or descriptions provided.

The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specificnomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the invention.However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that specificdetails are not required in order to practice the invention. In fact,this description should not be read to limit any feature or aspect ofthe present invention to any embodiment; rather features and aspects ofone embodiment may readily be interchanged with other embodiments. Forexample, although the above description of the embodiments related to avehicle, the discussion is applicable to all power distributionapplications such as in distributed generation/microgrid/power plantapplications. As such, a vehicle can include a power generation sourcethat can apply power using a power control unit to, for example, astructure, such as a building. Further the power control unit canfunction to provide power from the building to the vehicle.

Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of theinvention are presented for purposes of illustration and description.They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to theprecise forms disclosed; obviously, many modifications and variationsare possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosenand described in order to best explain the principles of the inventionand its practical applications; they thereby enable others skilled inthe art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments withvarious modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.Notably, not every benefit described herein need be realized by eachembodiment of the present invention; rather any specific embodiment canprovide one or more of the advantages discussed above. It is intendedthat the following claims and their equivalents define the scope of theinvention.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method of controlling the application of power during faults conditions comprising: generating a power signal to deliver to a power sink, the power signal having a programmable waveform; monitoring a parameter to determine whether the parameter is within a range of parameter values associated with operation of the power sink; comparing the parameter against one or more fault profiles; detecting a fault as a function of a value for the parameter being noncompliant; classifying the fault as being associated with a first subset of faults if the parameter matches a first portion of a fault profile of the one or more fault profiles; classifying the fault as being associated with a second subset of faults if the parameter matches a second portion of the fault profile; and initiating a fault action.
 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising: confirming whether the fault is absolute.
 3. The method of claim 2 wherein confirming whether the fault is absolute comprises: determining that the value for the parameter is associated with a third subset of parameter values.
 4. The method of claim 1 wherein classifying the fault as being associated with a first subset of faults comprises: confirming whether the fault is mature.
 5. The method of claim 4 wherein confirming whether the fault is mature comprises: determining that the value for the parameter is associated with a first subset of parameter values; and monitoring a first interval of time during which the value for the parameter is associated with the first subset of parameter values.
 6. The method of claim 5 further comprising: detecting that the first interval of time is equivalent to a threshold indicative of a matured fault.
 7. The method of claim 6 further comprising: indicating that the fault is mature as a matured fault; and implementing the fault action.
 8. The method of claim 5 further comprising: detecting that the first interval of time does not exceed a threshold indicative of a matured fault.
 9. The method of claim 8 further comprising: identifying the fault as a nascent fault; increasing a degree of maturity for the nascent fault while the value for the parameter is associated with the first subset of parameter values; and decreasing the degree of maturity for the nascent fault while the value for the parameter is associated with the second subset of parameter values.
 10. The method of claim 9 further comprising: indicating that the nascent fault is a mature fault if the degree of maturity meets a threshold degree of maturity.
 11. A non-transitory computer-readable storaqe medium configured to determine faults during application of power, the computer-readable medium comprising executable instructions configured to: cause generation of a power signal to deliver to a power sink, the power signal having a programmable waveform; monitor a parameter to determine whether the parameter is within a range of parameter values associated with operation of the power sink; compare the parameter against one or more fault profiles; detect a fault as a function of a value for the parameter being noncompliant; classify the fault as being associated with a first subset of faults if the parameter matches a first portion of a fault profile of the one or more fault profiles; classify the fault as being associated with a second subset of faults if the parameter matches a second portion of the fault profile; and cause initiation of a fault action.
 12. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 11 further comprising executable instructions configured to: confirm whether the fault is an extreme fault based on a magnitude-based fault type.
 13. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 11 wherein the executable instructions to cause initiation of the fault action further comprise executable instructions configured to: generate a notification message.
 14. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 11 wherein the executable instructions further comprise executable instructions configured to: identify the fault as a nascent fault; increase a degree of maturity for the nascent fault while the value for the parameter is associated with a first subset of parameter values; and decrease the degree of maturity for the nascent fault while the value for the parameter is associated with a second subset of parameter values.
 15. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 14 wherein the executable instructions further comprise executable instructions configured to: indicate that the nascent fault is a mature fault if the degree of maturity meets a threshold degree of maturity.
 16. An apparatus comprising: an input terminal configured to receive data from one or more sensors with which to determine a parameter; a memory including executable instructions; and a processor configured to execute the executable instructions to: monitor the parameter to determine whether the parameter is within a range of parameter values associated with operation of a power sink; compare the parameter against one or more fault profiles; detect a fault as a function of a value for the parameter being noncompliant; classify the fault as being associated with a first type of fault if the parameter matches a first portion of a fault profile of the one or more fault profiles; classify the fault as being associated with a second type of fault if the parameter matches a second portion of the fault profile; cause initiation of a fault action; and cause generation of a power signal to deliver to the power sink, the power signal having a programmable waveform.
 17. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein the processor is further configured to: confirm whether the fault is an extreme fault based on a magnitude-based fault type.
 18. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein the processor is further configured to: identify the fault as a nascent fault; increase a degree of maturity for the nascent fault while the value for the parameter is associated with a first subset of parameter values; decrease the degree of maturity for the nascent fault while the value for the parameter is associated with a second subset of parameter values; and indicate that the nascent fault is a mature fault if the degree of maturity meets a threshold degree of maturity.
 19. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein the processor is further configured to: identify that the fault is nascent to form a nascent fault; and determine whether the nascent fault matures into a subtle fault or dematures such that the fault is extinguished, wherein the maturation of the nascent fault or the dematuration of the nascent fault is a function of a degree of maturity relative to a threshold degree of maturity.
 20. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein the processor further comprises: a centralized processor. 